Rodgers brings the English version of "tiki-taka" football to Anfield.

Essentially, the team moves away from long balls and heavy crossing to a pass-heavy style of play which emphasizes possession. For examples, look at Arsenal, Roma, or most appropriately, Barcelona.

Each player operates within a specific zone and passing lane. Everyone from the goalkeeper to the center forward is part of a fluid scheme. The entire unit presses high up the pitch.

Xavi Hernandez sums it up in more simplistic terms. “I get the ball, I pass, I get the ball, I pass, I get the ball, I pass.”

The transition does not happen overnight.

Getting the collective egos and alternative playing styles at Liverpool to cohesively buy-in will take time.

The Kop needs to be patient as the Welshmen moves from the traditional 4-2-3-1 to his modified 4-3-3. Not every player on the roster will fit. Certainly, there should be a lot of movement in the summer transfer market as they evolve.

What follows is an assessment of a possible Rodgers initial starting XI.

Players are also rated on the likelihood that they last within the new system.

In many ways Skrtel’s duties will remain relatively static. The Slovakian is good on the ball and occasionally dangerous in the box on corners. However, he seems most comfortable playing back and supporting play.

Further, Agger should welcome this opportunity. He is excellent moving forward and has solid vision. His long underrated ability as a passer and director of play will be featured heavily.

Jose Enrique & Glen Johnson: WB

As noted in the EPL Index, “the players in this zone will need to be prepared to work particularly hard up and down the wing; both defensively and in more advanced positions.”

In some ways, Enrique and Johnson are well suited. Both have the requisite speed to aid in the attack. They also each possess the offensive ability to make an impact in the final third from the wings.

However, Enrique’s form clearly dropped toward the end of the campaign. Johnson has also been criticized for his tendency to get caught up the pitch.

Both issues need to be addressed.

With the high line and only two defenders as cover, Johnson has to consistently get back or he risks exposing his compatriots. Enrique’s problems are not specific to this system. However, they bear mentioning either way.

That said, each individual’s respective positive attributes outweigh the negative. There are also much more urgent needs elsewhere. Expect the outside defense to remain the same.

Lucas Leiva: CM

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Grade: B

Xavi Hernandez is the world’s gold standard at central midfielder. Leon Britton did an admirable job for Rodgers as well.

The ideal fit has the confidence to withstand pressure on the ball. Second, they possess the defensive capabilities to win the ball back. Third, he must be available as an outlet to teammates under pressure. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, they read the game and create from the back of the pitch.

Lucas Leiva without a doubt checks three of the four boxes. He is an outstanding defender, is well positioned, and rarely gives the ball away.

However, there are two major concerns. The Brazilian is returning from a serious knee injury. Liverpool has no one in reserve behind him and struggled mightily when he went down midseason.

More troubling, Lucas is still developing as an offensive creator.

In the past, players such as Gerrard, Alonso and even Mereiles were more likely to provide that cutting pass or thoughtful ball forward than Lucas. He must continue to evolve.

That said Lucas has grown exponentially since he first arrived at Anfield. I have every confidence that with time he can succeed.

Each player fits the system to varying degrees yet no one is ideal for different reasons.

Cole earns £90,000 a week and is over 30-years old. If Lille wants to sign him permanently expect the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) to comply.

Henderson, Spearing and Adam tend to give the ball away carelessly when under pressure. Compare that with the 86-percent pass completion rate seen at Swansea City and I doubt that they will be starters.

Shelvey has a tremendous amount of potential, but is very young. He is a dark horse to feature heavily under new management.

Aquilani in theory fits the mold. He is an excellent passer with outstanding vision.

However, he is yet to prove he can transition from Italian to English football. While on loan at AC Milan and Juventus he proved he still has the talent. But is he physical enough?

Finally, there is the matter of Steven Gerrard. He is assured a starting place, however, the transition could be particularly difficult for him. As I have written in the past, it is not entirely clear what his best position is.

He likes to run at the defense and often puts in a speculative pass. Rodgers prefers that his midfielders play measured balls and remain a bit more patient.

His class is undoubted so I am sure he will grow into it. However, it may take time.